Creamy Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Pasta

Creamy vegetarian broccoli cheddar pasta became a weeknight lifesaver when I needed something quick and comforting without using meat. I had broccoli and cheddar cheese on hand, so I tossed them with pasta and made a creamy sauce that turned out to be rich, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Ever since, this dish has been a favorite because it’s simple yet feels indulgent. The tender broccoli, gooey cheddar sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to make a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always customize it with your favorite additions!

• Pasta – The base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Broccoli – Adds freshness and a bit of crunch to balance the richness.
• Cheddar cheese – The key ingredient for a luscious cheesy sauce.
• Milk – Helps create a smooth creamy texture.
• Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Flour – Thickens the sauce to coat the pasta perfectly.
• Garlic – Provides a fragrant savory note.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Paprika – Adds a subtle warmth and color to the dish.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Pot – For boiling the pasta and broccoli.
• Skillet – To make the creamy cheddar sauce.
• Whisk – Helps create a smooth lump-free sauce.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping the broccoli.
• Strainer – To drain pasta and broccoli easily.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water, adding broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.

Step 2

I drain the pasta and broccoli, setting them aside while I prepare the sauce.

Step 3

In a skillet, I melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then whisk in flour to form a roux.

Step 4

I slowly add milk while whisking continuously, letting the sauce thicken over medium heat.

Step 5

I stir in shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of paprika, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6

I add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce, tossing everything together until well coated.

Step 7

Finally, I season with salt and pepper, serve hot, and enjoy every cheesy bite.

Tips

For extra creaminess, I sometimes add a splash of cream or a bit of cream cheese. If you want a sharper flavor, use aged cheddar. You can also add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top and bake for a few minutes for a baked version.

Ways to Serve

This creamy broccoli cheddar pasta is perfect on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, just add it to the pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking as you would with fresh broccoli.

What other cheese works well?

Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can create different delicious flavors.

Can I make this sauce gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce instead of regular flour.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this creamy vegetarian broccoli cheddar pasta soon. It’s cheesy, comforting, and a perfect choice for quick homemade dinners. Let me know how yours turns out because I’d love to hear your version.

Happy Cooking!

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